How Texans, CJ Stroud unintentionally keep crushing the Carolina Panthers franchise

KARMA POLICE

This week, the Houston Texans are preparing to play a do-or-die game against the Colts with a Wild Card berth on the line. And regardless of the outcome, it's safe to say it's been a great season for the Texans, who have already secured a winning record.

Especially when compared to how things have played out for the Panthers, who had the No. 1 pick in the draft. They've already fired their head coach and have only won two games this season.

Things got even worse for the Panthers on Sunday as they were dominated 26-0 by the Jaguars, who started backup quarterback CJ Beathard. Frustrations ran high in this game, causing QB Bryce Young to smash his tablet on the sideline, and owner David Tepper to throw his drink on Jaguar fans.

As if things aren't bad enough for Carolina, it looks like the Texans nailed the No.3 overall pick in the draft with Will Anderson, who looks like a legit Pro Bowler for years to come. Not to mention CJ Stroud who already plays like a generational QB as a rookie.

Also, let's not forget DeMeco Ryans and Nick Caserio have a legit shot at winning Coach of the Year and Executive of the Year, respectively.

With that in mind, what will it take for Houston fans to fully embrace the new-look Texans? Sunday's game against the Titans was one of the biggest crowds of the season at NRG, but there were a few empty seats.

What has to happen for Texans fans to fully buy back in and have a big waiting list for season tickets like in years past? Would beating the Colts and making the playoffs be enough?

Be sure to watch the video above as we break it all down!




Most Popular

How will Soto's massive contract impact the Astros?Composite Getty Image.

Over the weekend, the big domino finally fell with Juan Soto agreeing to a 15-year, $765 million megadeal with the New York Mets. Which means Alex Bregman and the other top free agents on the market should soon follow in short order.

In fact, we're already seeing reports from Rob Bradford of WEEI and USA Today’s Bob Nightengale claiming that the Red Sox and Yankees are “expected” to make a run at Bregman.

Soto heading to the National League certainly feels like a win for Astros fans, but that could change if missing out on Soto causes the Yankees to pry Breggy away from Houston.

We'll have to wait and see how this plays out before we get too excited. However, one thing is for sure, all the free agents on the market have to be thrilled about the size of Soto's deal. Not to mention Willy Adames' 7-year, $182 million deal with the Giants that could help Bregman's chances of receiving a more lucrative deal than the Astros reportedly offered him, 6- years, $154 million.

What's really eye-opening about Soto's contract is how it could impact Framber Valdez and Kyle Tucker, specifically Tucker. It's hard to imagine Tucker won't get an offer of at least $300 million, and at this point $400 million wouldn't surprise us.

Historically, the Astros don't trade their big name free agents before their contracts expire, but perhaps they should rethink that approach with King Tuck. If they won't even entertain a deal approaching $300 million, it might be worth taking a step back this year to replenish the farm system and focus on the team long-term.

Speaking of trades, the Astros are reportedly calling anyone who will listen about the availability of Ryan Pressly.

Don't miss the video above as we react to the Soto deal, share our thoughts on how it could impact the Astros championship window, and much more!

Most Popular

SportsMap Emails
Are Awesome

Listen Live

ESPN Houston 97.5 FM